asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if, in view of the statement of the Minister for Education in Limerick in September last regarding proposed plans for the expansion and development of the confectionery department of the Condensed Milk Company, Limerick, he will state what progress has been made in the development of this company; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

As I indicated in reply to a question on 7th December last, a detailed examination of the business was being undertaken by a firm of consultants. The consultants furnished an interim report and have more recently furnished a further report dealing with a specific offer for acquisition of the factory. I am at present considering the position in the light of these reports.

Could the Parliamentary Secretary tell us when he will be in a position to give a decision on that matter?

I cannot say when the Minister will be in a position to give a decision on the matter but I would expect that it would be in the not too distant future.

How long is that? In what terms is the Parliamentary Secretary measuring distance?

Not too distant.